Caffeine Content
The South American drink is made by steeping the leaves of the yerba mate plant in hot water. It has a unique, invigorating taste and high caffeine content. The caffeine produces stimulation and soothing effects due to the high concentration of theobromine. It provides focused energy and mental alertness without an unwanted crash.
The caffeine content depends on the brewing method. On average, a cup contains about 70mg of caffeine compared to 120mg in coffee and 50mg in black tea. However, caffeine concentration varies greatly by product and preparation method.
Health Benefits
In addition to caffeine, it contains antioxidant compounds like caffeoyl derivatives and polyphenols. Cell and animal studies show mate extract may provide some protection against heart disease.
Storage
When stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture, the tea can last one to two years before losing freshness. Check for signs of spoilage like discoloration, musty smell or mold before use. An airtight container in the fridge can extend shelf life by several months.
Preparation Methods
The traditional way to prepare the tea is by steeping leaves in a gourd and sipping through a special straw. This method is popular for social gatherings in South America. Simpler preparation options include teabags for a less intense flavor.
Yes, it has a lower caffeine content than coffee. But along with caffeine, it contains healthy compounds like antioxidants. Consumed together in moderation, the tea and coffee can provide an energy boost without significant health risks.
Sleep and Alertness
Will it keep me awake?
It contains caffeine. Like any caffeinated food or beverage, it may increase energy levels and make you feel less tired. The effects can last 4-6 hours in a healthy adult. This gives enough time to stay alert and awake to perform required work.
Drinking large amounts for a long time increases cancer risk. Using it also increases eye pressure due to caffeine. Those with glaucoma should discuss use with a doctor. The pressure peaks at 30 minutes and lasts at least 90 minutes after drinking.
It has antioxidant compounds that may protect the heart. However, its caffeine can worsen diarrhea. It also contains chemicals that may relax the body and mind. Some people use it to aid concentration and treat attention deficits instead of medication.
Storage
When stored properly in a cool, dry place, it lasts 1-2 years. Signs it has spoiled include discoloration, musty smell, and mold. The taste may also change. Discard it if any signs of spoilage appear.
It can be frozen if stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It can also be refrigerated for several months if stored in an airtight container.
Duration of Effects
It is made by steeping leaves in hot water. It has a unique, invigorating taste and high caffeine content.
The caffeine can stimulate effects lasting a few minutes up to several hours, depending on the amount consumed. The stimulating effects may start fading after about 2 hours. This will depend on the amount consumed and personal tolerance levels.
It has antioxidant compounds that may help lower heart disease risk. However, its caffeine can worsen glaucoma by increasing eye pressure within 30 minutes for at least 90 minutes. Those with glaucoma should discuss use with a healthcare provider.
To maximize the tea leaves, avoid overdiffusing them. This can release more tannins, causing bitterness and faster loss of stimulating properties.
The half-life determines its duration of effects in the body. A cup can keep a healthy adult alert for 4-6 hours, allowing time to work or stay awake.
It is comparable to black tea in potential long-term health benefits, although their polyphenol content differs. The benefits are dose-dependent.
Unlike coffee that can cause crashes, it provides steady stimulation without jitters due to its adaptogenic properties that help regulate bodily systems.
Stored properly in a cool, dry place, it can last 1-2 years before spoilage.
Comparison to Coffee
Is it more powerful than coffee?
With less caffeine than coffee but more than tea, it is a balanced caffeine option. It contains about 30-50 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, while coffee typically has 95 milligrams. This means that it has significantly less caffeine than coffee. Despite its lower caffeine content, the caffeine is absorbed and metabolized differently by the body. This results in a more sustained energy boost compared to the quick spike and crash often experienced with coffee. Its caffeine is accompanied by other beneficial compounds like theobromine and theophylline. These compounds can enhance alertness and provide additional health benefits.
The leaves and twigs of the plant are dried, typically over a fire, and steeped in hot water to make an herbal tea. It may be served cold or hot. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to coffee that’s full of important and healthy ingredients, then it can be the better choice over coffee.
A serving has between 30-180 mg of caffeine. The average cup contains about 70 mg of caffeine, compared to 120 mg of caffeine in a cup of coffee.
While a standard 8-ounce cup of coffee contains around 95 milligrams of caffeine, the same amount of it typically has about 78 milligrams. This difference makes it a viable alternative for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake without sacrificing the stimulating effect.
Coffee is well-known for its antioxidant properties. But too much coffee consumption may tax our adrenals, dehydrate us, and fray our nerves. It doesn’t have to replace coffee to fit into a healthy lifestyle. Let’s be clear: it also contains caffeine.